Video & Transcript : 'AI integration' :
Page 420 of 500
AL
Bills:
SJR 4 , SJR 40 , SJR 81 , SCR 37 , SCR 39 , SB 22 , SB 32 , SB 33 , SB 36 , SB 38 , SB 95 , SB 209 , SB 249 , SB 311 , SB 326 , SB 365 , SB 458 , SB 609 , SB 660 , SB 664 , SB 693 , SB 732 , SB 745 , SB 760 , SB 762 , SB 779 , SB 783 , SB 785 , SB 868 , SB 871 , SB 883 , SB 921 , SB 955 , SB 993 , SB 996 , SB 1008 , SB 1057 , SB 1067 , SB 1151 , SB 1171 , SB 1210 , SB 1255 , SB 1265 , SB 1267 , SB 1271 , SB 1307 , SB 1313 , SB 1316 , SB 1318 , SB 1321 , SB 1332 , SB 1365 , SB 1426 , SB 1470 , SB 1484 , SB 1494 , SB 1559 , SB 1592 , SB 1596 , SB 1598 , SB 1637 , SB 1677 , SB 1706 , SB 1758 , SB 1762 , SB 1786 , SB 1809 , SB 1818 , SB 1822 , SB 1841 , SB 1871 , SB 1967 , SB 2064 , SB 2077 , SB 2112 , SB 2148 , SB 2320 , SB 2406 , SB 2407 , SJR 36 , SJR 81 , SJR 50 , SJR 4 , SJR 40 , SJR 27 , SCR 22 , SCR 12 , SCR 39 , SCR 38 , SCR 37 , SB 921 , SB 609 , SB 660 , SB 765 , SB 62 , SB 666 , SB 888 , SB 687 , SB 847 , SB 1248 , SB 504 , SB 305 , SB 296 , SB 284 , SB 304 , SB 1023 , SB 204 , SB 670 , SB 850 , SB 854 , SB 413 , SB 1346 , SB 1033 , SB 1220 , SB 1073 , SB 810 , SB 1539 , SB 447 , SB 1119 , SB 1505 , SB 1215 , SB 1302 , SB 583 , SB 673 , SB 681 , SB 1172 , SB 955 , SB 957 , SB 541 , SB 266 , SB 1415 , SB 53 , SB 1352 , SB 785 , SB 1450 , SB 1502 , SB 1566 , SB 1062 , SB 711 , SB 746 , SB 1404 , SB 1448 , SB 507 , SB 1026 , SB 1349 , SB 1355 , SB 1433 , SB 1434 , SB 1596 , SB 1403 , SB 667 , SB 1059 , SB 1567 , SB 310 , SB 311 , SB 505 , SB 1210 , SB 1470 , SB 264 , SB 1358 , SB 1364 , SB 1569 , SB 1376 , SB 1228 , SB 519 , SB 1350 , SB 462 , SB 827 , SB 1585 , SB 1484 , SB 1273 , SB 927 , SB 1227 , SB 1229 , SB 1353 , SB 1464 , SB 1709 , SB 1729 , SB 1733 , SB 1744 , SB 1772 , SB 1841 , SB 1008 , SB 2016 , SB 1173 , SB 1163 , SB 996 , SB 1370 , SB 1321 , SB 1101 , SB 860 , SB 993 , SB 693 , SB 1537 , SB 1332 , SB 1307 , SB 963 , SB 493 , SB 984 , SB 619 , SB 1122 , SB 455 , SB 522 , SB 1057 , SB 1239 , SB 1254 , SB 1255 , SB 1259 , SB 1341 , SB 1877 , SB 1277 , SB 32 , SB 732 , SB 731 , SB 268 , SB 1822 , SB 1589 , SB 397 , SB 1058 , SB 1267 , SB 2112 , SB 1930 , SB 532 , SB 508 , SB 292 , SB 291 , SB 901 , SB 1333 , SB 1436 , SB 1494 , SB 964 , SB 779 , SB 1378 , SB 2312 , SB 1719 , SB 287 , SB 2143 , SB 1245 , SB 261 , SB 1247 , SB 2406 , SB 2407 , SB 1882 , SB 618 , SB 38 , SB 393 , SB 1371 , SB 1365 , SB 2243 , SB 2226 , SB 2039 , SB 1919 , SB 1895 , SB 1598 , SB 1493 , SB 1810 , SB 1791 , SB 1706 , SB 1644 , SB 1238 , SB 783 , SB 458 , SB 22 , SB 651 , SB 897 , SB 1809 , SB 1080 , SB 745 , SB 826 , SB 989 , SB 1320 , SB 1437 , SB 2320 , SB 2289 , SB 1171 , SB 664 , SB 1637 , SB 2064 , SB 868 , SB 1079 , SB 1243 , SB 1504 , SB 1851 , SB 1879 , SB 2237 , SB 1257 , SB 2034 , SB 1522 , SB 883 , SB 249 , SB 1318 , SB 1151 , SB 596 , SB 1191 , SB 226 , SB 570 , SB 870 , SB 991 , SB 60 , SB 365 , SB 1067 , SB 1786 , SB 326 , SB 1401 , SB 1592 , SB 1728 , SB 1265 , SB 586 , SB 529 , SB 217 , SB 209 , SB 1923 , SB 1559 , SB 1839 , SB 387 , SB 1874 , SB 1872 , SB 1873 , SB 1921 , SB 1883 , SB 1677 , SB 95 , SB 1620 , SB 1838 , SB 2024 , SB 2429 , SB 1999 , SB 511 , SB 2309 , SB 2166 , SB 871 , SB 510 , SB 33 , SB 2420 , SB 1860 , SB 1541 , SB 1316 , SB 1314 , SB 1313 , SB 1426 , SB 1398 , SB 1869 , SB 1750 , SB 1871 , SB 36 , SB 855 , SB 1233 , SB 760 , SB 2425 , SB 2037 , SB 1758 , SB 1759 , SB 2365 , SB 1924 , SB 762 , SB 1271 , SB 1818 , SB 605 , SB 1405 , SB 1762 , SB 1968 , SB 1977 , SB 2077 , SB 2148 , SB 2321 , SB 1967 , SB 1662 , SB 1663 , SB 2124 , SB 2204 , SB 1855 , SB 863 , SB 37 , SJR 39 , SCR 1 , SCR 27 , SCR 32 , SCR 42 , SCR 6 , SB 2232 , SB 819 , SB 2078 , SB 2252 , SB 1962 , SB 2253 , SB 825 , SB 1577 , SB 1184 , SB 2018 , SB 2206 , SB 1901 , SB 1030 , SB 2368 , SB 1963 , SB 1960 , SB 1643 , SB 1625 , SB 1299 , SB 841 , SB 668 , SB 584 , SB 231 , SB 2411 , SB 1085 , SB 2431 , SB 2231 , SB 1490 , SB 530 , SB 34 , SB 1261 , SJR 81 , SB 32 , SB 458 , SB 664 , SB 693 , SB 868 , SB 1008 , SB 1267 , SB 1307 , SB 1321 , SB 1484 , SB 1637 , SB 1809 , SB 1822 , SB 2064 , SB 2112 , SB 2320 , SB 2406 , SB 2407 , SB 609 , SB 660 , SB 921 , SB 779 , SB 1470 , SR 388 , SB 3042 , SB 440 , SB 2876 , SB 3042 , SB 440 , SB 2876
Keywords:
economic stabilization fund, state finance, constitutional amendment, budget management, financial security, emergency powers, legislative authority, governor powers, disaster management, tax exemption, ad valorem, tangible personal property, income production, SCR 37, Senate Concurrent Resolution, Panama Canal, Texas ports, port infrastructure, maritime trade, shipping lanes
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- Preventing unjust separations and preserving the integrity of the process. That is the bill, Mr.
- LEGISLATION IS NOT ABOUT WEAKENING CHILD PROTECTION; IT'S ABOUT STRENGTHENING IT WITH ACCURACY AND MEDICAL INTEGRITY
Bills:
SJR4 , SJR40 , SJR81 , SCR37 , SCR39 , SB22 , SB32 , SB33 , SB36 , SB38 , SB95 , SB209 , SB249 , SB311 , SB326 , SB365 , SB458 , SB609 , SB660 , SB664 , SB693 , SB732 , SB745 , SB760 , SB762 , SB779 , SB783 , SB785 , SB868 , SB871 , SB883 , SB921 , SB955 , SB993 , SB996 , SB1008 , SB1057 , SB1067 , SB1151 , SB1171 , SB1210 , SB1255 , SB1265 , SB1267 , SB1271 , SB1307 , SB1313 , SB1316 , SB1318 , SB1321 , SB1332 , SB1365 , SB1426 , SB1470 , SB1484 , SB1494 , SB1559 , SB1592 , SB1596 , SB1598 , SB1637 , SB1677 , SB1706 , SB1758 , SB1762 , SB1786 , SB1809 , SB1818 , SB1822 , SB1841 , SB1871 , SB1967 , SB2064 , SB2077 , SB2112 , SB2148 , SB2320 , SB2406 , SB2407 , SJR36 , SJR81 , SJR50 , SJR4 , SJR40 , SJR27 , SCR22 , SCR12 , SCR39 , SCR38 , SCR37 , SB921 , SB609 , SB660 , SB765 , SB62 , SB666 , SB888 , SB687 , SB847 , SB1248 , SB504 , SB305 , SB296 , SB284 , SB304 , SB1023 , SB204 , SB670 , SB850 , SB854 , SB413 , SB1346 , SB1033 , SB1220 , SB1073 , SB810 , SB1539 , SB447 , SB1119 , SB1505 , SB1215 , SB1302 , SB583 , SB673 , SB681 , SB1172 , SB955 , SB957 , SB541 , SB266 , SB1415 , SB53 , SB1352 , SB785 , SB1450 , SB1502 , SB1566 , SB1062 , SB711 , SB746 , SB1404 , SB1448 , SB507 , SB1026 , SB1349 , SB1355 , SB1433 , SB1434 , SB1596 , SB1403 , SB667 , SB1059 , SB1567 , SB310 , SB311 , SB505 , SB1210 , SB1470 , SB264 , SB1358 , SB1364 , SB1569 , SB1376 , SB1228 , SB519 , SB1350 , SB462 , SB827 , SB1585 , SB1484 , SB1273 , SB927 , SB1227 , SB1229 , SB1353 , SB1464 , SB1709 , SB1729 , SB1733 , SB1744 , SB1772 , SB1841 , SB1008 , SB2016 , SB1173 , SB1163 , SB996 , SB1370 , SB1321 , SB1101 , SB860 , SB993 , SB693 , SB1537 , SB1332 , SB1307 , SB963 , SB493 , SB984 , SB619 , SB1122 , SB455 , SB522 , SB1057 , SB1239 , SB1254 , SB1255 , SB1259 , SB1341 , SB1877 , SB1277 , SB32 , SB732 , SB731 , SB268 , SB1822 , SB1589 , SB397 , SB1058 , SB1267 , SB2112 , SB1930 , SB532 , SB508 , SB292 , SB291 , SB901 , SB1333 , SB1436 , SB1494 , SB964 , SB779 , SB1378 , SB2312 , SB1719 , SB287 , SB2143 , SB1245 , SB261 , SB1247 , SB2406 , SB2407 , SB1882 , SB618 , SB38 , SB393 , SB1371 , SB1365 , SB2243 , SB2226 , SB2039 , SB1919 , SB1895 , SB1598 , SB1493 , SB1810 , SB1791 , SB1706 , SB1644 , SB1238 , SB783 , SB458 , SB22 , SB651 , SB897 , SB1809 , SB1080 , SB745 , SB826 , SB989 , SB1320 , SB1437 , SB2320 , SB2289 , SB1171 , SB664 , SB1637 , SB2064 , SB868 , SB1079 , SB1243 , SB1504 , SB1851 , SB1879 , SB2237 , SB1257 , SB2034 , SB1522 , SB883 , SB249 , SB1318 , SB1151 , SB596 , SB1191 , SB226 , SB570 , SB870 , SB991 , SB60 , SB365 , SB1067 , SB1786 , SB326 , SB1401 , SB1592 , SB1728 , SB1265 , SB586 , SB529 , SB217 , SB209 , SB1923 , SB1559 , SB1839 , SB387 , SB1874 , SB1872 , SB1873 , SB1921 , SB1883 , SB1677 , SB95 , SB1620 , SB1838 , SB2024 , SB2429 , SB1999 , SB511 , SB2309 , SB2166 , SB871 , SB510 , SB33 , SB2420 , SB1860 , SB1541 , SB1316 , SB1314 , SB1313 , SB1426 , SB1398 , SB1869 , SB1750 , SB1871 , SB36 , SB855 , SB1233 , SB760 , SB2425 , SB2037 , SB1758 , SB1759 , SB2365 , SB1924 , SB762 , SB1271 , SB1818 , SB605 , SB1405 , SB1762 , SB1968 , SB1977 , SB2077 , SB2148 , SB2321 , SB1967 , SB1662 , SB1663 , SB2124 , SB2204 , SB1855 , SB863 , SB37 , SJR39 , SCR1 , SCR27 , SCR32 , SCR42 , SCR6 , SB2232 , SB819 , SB2078 , SB2252 , SB1962 , SB2253 , SB825 , SB1577 , SB1184 , SB2018 , SB2206 , SB1901 , SB1030 , SB2368 , SB1963 , SB1960 , SB1643 , SB1625 , SB1299 , SB841 , SB668 , SB584 , SB231 , SB2411 , SB1085 , SB2431 , SB2231 , SB1490 , SB530 , SB34 , SB1261 , SJR81 , SB32 , SB458 , SB664 , SB693 , SB868 , SB1008 , SB1267 , SB1307 , SB1321 , SB1484 , SB1637 , SB1809 , SB1822 , SB2064 , SB2112 , SB2320 , SB2406 , SB2407 , SB609 , SB660 , SB921 , SB779 , SB1470 , SR388 , SB3042 , SB440 , SB2876 , SB3042 , SB440 , SB2876
Keywords:
economic stabilization fund, state finance, constitutional amendment, budget management, financial security, emergency powers, legislative authority, governor powers, disaster management, tax exemption, ad valorem, tangible personal property, income production, SCR 37, Senate Concurrent Resolution, Panama Canal, Texas ports, port infrastructure, maritime trade, shipping lanes
PA
Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Jun 25 2026)
Pennsylvania Senate Floor Meeting
ND
Transcript Highlights:
- The transfer would be from the integrated formula payments line, which is where the Foundation Aid or
- We'll call on DPI for a report on development of the Integrated Formula Gap funding program.
Committee:
Joint Budget Section
ND
Transcript Highlights:
- The transfer would be from the integrated formula payments line, which is where the Foundation Aid or
- We'll call on DPI for a report on development of the Integrated Formula Gap Funding Program.
Committee:
Joint Budget Section
Summary:
The Budget Section met to approve prior minutes and receive a series of budget, revenue, and program updates from OMB, the Tax Department, DOT, DMR, and DPI. OMB reported that general fund revenues through May were about $76 million below the legislative forecast, driven mainly by individual income tax and sales tax shortfalls, though the biennium is still projected to end with a positive balance. OMB also reviewed oil price and production assumptions, the budget stabilization fund transfer above its cap, Legacy Fund performance, federal grant applications, fiscal irregularities, tobacco settlement proceeds, budget guidelines for agencies, vacancy savings, and the DAPL settlement, noting that most of the settlement funds had been deposited but a small amount of accrued interest would require a future deficiency request.
The committee then considered Emergency Commission requests. It approved requests for Public Service Commission abandoned mine lands federal authority, an Attorney General FTE and related funding for criminal investigator work tied to the Office of Guardianship and Conservatorship, and a DPI transfer for bridge software costs. After discussion, the committee also approved DPI’s request for a $500,000 transfer for the food vendor program, despite questions about the program’s savings and cash-flow structure. Later, the Tax Commissioner presented the primary residence credit program, reporting that current biennium costs are expected to exceed the appropriation by about $22 million and explaining how the credit interacts with homestead and disabled veteran credits and the 3% property tax levy cap.
The Legacy and Budget Stabilization Fund Advisory Board reported strong returns for both funds, and DOT sought and received approval for two flexible fund highway projects on ND 49 and ND 31. DOT also updated members on Highway 85 construction and said remaining flex fund dollars were essentially fully allocated. DMR reported on the abandoned well plugging and site reclamation fund, noting North Dakota’s relatively small orphan well inventory, current and projected fund balances, rising remediation costs, and a possible need to adjust the fund cap in future sessions. Finally, DPI outlined the new integrated formula gap funding program, explaining that it compensates school districts that cannot reach the assumed 60-mill local contribution because of the 3% levy cap; the first year’s gap funding totaled about $1.8 million, with future costs expected to grow.
ND
North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Budget Section Jun 24th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- The transfer would be from the integrated formula payments line, which is where the Foundation Aid or
- We'll call on DPI for a report on development of the Integrated Formula Gap Funding Program.
Summary:
The Budget Section approved the March 18 minutes and received an OMB update showing the general fund is still ahead of the budgeted starting point, but revenues through May are now about $76 million below the legislative forecast, driven mainly by individual income tax and sales tax shortfalls. OMB also reported the budget stabilization fund is above its cap, meaning a transfer to the general fund is expected, and reviewed oil price/production assumptions, noting continued volatility. Members asked about the income tax netting process, the sales tax decline, oil price discounts/premiums, natural gas taxation, and when the executive branch would present its revenue forecast.
The committee then acted on several Emergency Commission requests. It approved, as a group, requests for federal mine reclamation funds for the Public Service Commission, an additional criminal investigator FTE and funding for the Attorney General’s office, and a DPI transfer for bridge software costs. It separately approved DPI request 2164 for $500,000 to support the food vendor program after debate over whether the program’s savings were known and whether the money was simply a pass-through. OMB also reported on federal grants, fiscal irregularities, tobacco settlement proceeds, budget guidelines for agencies, FTE pool usage, vacancy savings, and the DAPL settlement, noting the settlement funds had been deposited and that a deficiency appropriation may be needed later to cover remaining accrued interest.
Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus presented on the primary residence credit program, saying participation has grown sharply and that the current biennium will likely need about $431 million, roughly $22 million above the appropriation. He explained how the credit interacts with homestead and disabled veteran benefits, how the 3% property tax cap works, and why county valuations and mill rates vary. The committee also received a Legacy Fund/Budget Stabilization Fund report showing strong returns, and DOT Director Ron Henke received approval for two Flex Fund highway projects on ND 49 and ND 31. Henke also explained remaining Highway 85 funding and said the department is exploring uses for leftover state dollars. Finally, the Department of Mineral Resources reported on abandoned well plugging and site restoration, noting North Dakota remains in relatively strong shape compared with other states, and DPI began a presentation on gap funding tied to the 3% levy cap, reporting 24 districts received $1.8 million in the first year and projecting higher future needs.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- nature of the management plan in this area with regard to this fishery, that it might be able to integrate
- efforts to re-evaluate access to the Northern Edge under a framework that preserves environmental integrity
Summary:
The joint hearing focused on the Atlantic sea scallop fishery, with particular attention to Massachusetts ports, federal scallop management, the proposed reopening of the Northern Edge on Georges Bank, and permit stacking/consolidation. The chair opened by noting the hearing would take written and oral testimony, that time was limited, and that the discussion was intended to inform legislative engagement with federal regulators rather than decide the issue directly. Dan McCarron of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and Dr. Kate O’Keefe of the New England Fishery Management Council outlined the federal management structure under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, the role of annual catch limits and rotational closures, and the economic importance of scallops to New Bedford, Gloucester, and other Massachusetts ports. O’Keefe said the council’s current scallop framework is based on annual management, research surveys, and public input, and that recent environmental changes and uncertainty are affecting catch advice and biomass.
Dr. O’Keefe and later Dr. Kevin Stokesbury of UMass Dartmouth described the fishery’s recent condition: abundance has increased in some areas, but biomass has fallen because many scallops are still too small to harvest, and changing ocean conditions and natural mortality are affecting the stock. They said the Northern Edge action was considered as a joint scallop/habitat framework but was discontinued in 2024 because the council could not reconcile competing objectives involving scallop yield, habitat protection, and impacts on other species such as cod, lobster, and herring. Stokesbury emphasized the long-running collaborative survey work with industry, said the fishery remains highly productive, and argued that the science supports careful rotational management and that the Northern Edge could be highly productive for scallops, though he acknowledged habitat tradeoffs. Committee members pressed both witnesses on why the issue had remained unresolved for so long and whether the council could revisit it through a future framework.
Representatives of the Sustainable Scalloping Fund, including attorney Drew Kavage, John Lees, Sam Blasley, and Tony Alvernes, urged support for reopening the Northern Edge and for permit stacking, which would allow more than one scallop permit on a vessel while keeping ownership caps in place. They argued the fishery is a major economic driver, that industry-funded research has supported sustainable management, and that stacking would help family-owned operators reduce costs, improve safety, and avoid financial distress. They also stressed the need to protect working waterfront infrastructure in New Bedford and other ports. The chair said he was not opposed to stacking in principle but wanted to avoid a slippery slope toward excessive consolidation or private equity control; he noted that any stacking change would require an amendment to the fishery management plan or federal action. No votes were taken, and the hearing concluded with an invitation for continued engagement and future updates on the council process.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Transportation Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Joint Committee on Transportation
Transcript Highlights:
- They outlined the boundaries that are important to help prevent, excuse me, protect the integrity and
- Opportunity Act provides a common-sense approach to our motor vehicle operation policies while maintaining integrity
Committee:
Joint Joint Committee on Transportation
Summary:
The Joint Committee on Transportation held a public hearing on several bills related to driver’s license suspensions, junior operator training, online driver education, and regulation of e-bikes/scooters. A major focus was the Road to Opportunity Act (H. 3662/S. 2368), which would end license suspensions and registration holds for unpaid fines and fees unrelated to road safety, create hardship waivers and payment options, and replace suspension with nonrenewal in some cases. Supporters included the Attorney General’s office, ACLU, CPCS, Greater Boston Legal Services, transportation and anti-poverty advocates, and several affected residents who described job loss, housing instability, and difficulty paying toll and fee debts. They argued the current system punishes poverty, disproportionately affects Black and Latino residents, and is costly to enforce. Some testimony also noted that the bill would preserve suspensions for dangerous driving offenses.
District Attorney Marion Ryan testified in favor of two bills: one allowing partial payment plans for certain RMV penalties and another closing a loophole that makes the penalty for violating a hardship license less severe than driving after a full suspension. Senator Sear and Representative Reed also spoke for the Road to Opportunity Act, while the AAG said the Attorney General supports it. Committee members asked about RMV implementation and whether the agency supports payment plans; Ryan said the RMV has been cooperative but believes legislation is needed. No votes were taken during the hearing.
The committee also heard testimony on bills affecting young drivers. Senator Lovely and Representative Cruz supported a bill to create a junior operator license training fund, expand access for low- and moderate-income families, require refunds in some cases, and allow earlier passenger privileges. Another bill would make virtual instructor-led driver education permanent; AAA and several driving school owners supported it as an access and convenience measure, while other instructors opposed it, arguing in-person instruction is safer and more effective. Finally, Senator Collins and others testified for a transportation safety bill regulating motorized bicycles, scooters, e-bikes, and mopeds, increasing fines, requiring insurance for commercial use, and requiring public hearings and accessibility review for new bike lanes. Advocates for blind and disabled pedestrians supported that bill, while some transportation and business voices backed it as a safety and planning measure.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- But this tax for this bag or fee, whatever you want to call it, really compromises the integrity of this
- add something like this to it that hurts families who are struggling right now, it compromises the integrity
Summary:
The Senate took up a major environmental bond bill with amendments covering climate resilience, housing health, plastics reduction, coastal protection, fisheries, and related regulatory issues. Early debate included Senator Keenan’s withdrawn amendment to fund the Massachusetts Healthy Homes Program with $50 million, followed by his adopted amendment banning hotels from providing plastic toiletry packages. Senator Tarr’s amendment to remove the paper bag charge was defeated after extended debate over whether the 10-cent bag assessment functioned as a tax; a related floor speech from Senator Duner argued the fee would burden working families. The chamber also adopted Senator Fernandez’s ocean acidification amendment, which would aggregate ocean monitoring data to support shellfish, water quality, and coastal management, with support from Senators Sear and Driscoll. Other adopted measures included Driscoll’s Houghton’s Pond multi-use trail, Montigny’s New Bedford State Pier redevelopment and harbor oil-recovery provisions, Collins’s Commonwealth Conservation Commission later withdrawn, and several coastal resilience and housing-related amendments.
The Senate also approved a series of environmental and public health measures. Senator Moore’s rodenticide restriction amendment was adopted after testimony from animal welfare and conservation groups, with the sponsor describing harms to wildlife, pets, and livestock and noting local municipal support. Senator Lewis’s amendment directing DEP to study the feasibility of banning polystyrene was adopted, as was Senator Mark’s Massachusetts Climate Bank amendment and Senator Edwards’s carbon sequestration amendment expanding attention to salt marshes, seagrasses, and waterways. The chamber adopted amendments on equitable representation, improving indoor air quality, and a Douglas State Forest trust fund that would raise the entry fee from $1 to $2 for maintenance. Several amendments were withdrawn, including Collins’s urban coastal resilience commission and Tarr’s proposed Commonwealth Conservation Commission.
Housing and permitting issues were another major theme. Senator Driscoll’s amendment requiring local confirmation before a project is designated a priority housing project was defeated, but his related amendments clarifying the process and requiring consultation with the Housing and Livable Communities Secretary were adopted. The Senate also adopted Crichton’s amendments streamlining permitting for coastal resiliency projects in urban areas and creating a five-year pilot for nature-based solutions, as well as Tarr’s amendment adding dredging and sand placement to general coastal permits. Tarr’s amendment to revise the Salisbury Beach Preservation Trust Fund was adopted, while his later constitutional challenge to a landform-migration provision was withdrawn after he argued it could amount to an uncompensated taking. The session ended with the Senate noting only two amendments remained and then adjourning in memory of Quincy’s former mayor James A. Sheets.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Thursday, June 11, 2026)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- This administration will not ever erase their devotion, excellence, and integrity.
- commemorates the signing of the The date commemorates the signing of the Women's Armed Services Integration
LA
Transcript Highlights:
- We thank you that every decision they make is going to be with justice, with integrity, Lord.
- House Bill 632 by Representative Spell is an act in Title 17 relative to Louisiana's Foundational Integrated
Bills:
SR146 , SCR12 , HB221 , HCR115 , HCR116 , HCR58 , HB1 , HB312 , HB313 , HB314 , HB383 , HB983 , HB1126 , HCR3 , HB2 , HB3 , SCR3 , SB56 , SCR9 , SCR58 , SB35 , SB65 , SB215 , SB246 , SB249 , SB269 , SB282 , SB296 , SB323 , SB363 , SB369 , SB474 , SB490 , SB492 , SB500 , SB514 , HCR27 , HCR28 , HCR66 , HCR67 , HCR72 , HCR5 , HCR32 , HCR49 , HCR50 , HCR53 , HCR60 , HCR62 , HCR64 , HCR68 , HCR78 , HCR81 , HCR86 , HCR97 , HCR102 , HCR31 , HCR47 , HB476 , HB481 , HB487 , HB492 , HB549 , HB579 , HB608 , HB621 , HB624 , HB626 , HB632 , HB637 , HB656 , HB722 , HB745 , HB804 , HB818 , HB821 , HB833 , HB864 , HB867 , HB874 , HB893 , HB909 , HB951 , HB968 , HB969 , HB978 , HB979 , HB988 , HB989 , HB1001 , HB1005 , HB1007 , HB1024 , HB1032 , HB1050 , HB1051 , HB1056 , HB1059 , HB1077 , HB1080 , HB1081 , HB1086 , HB1108 , HB1112 , HB1153 , HB1172 , HB1173 , HB1175 , HB1192 , HB1193 , HB1204 , HB1218 , HB1242 , HB1244 , HB1249 , HB1252 , HB1254 , HB42 , HB45 , HB71 , HB79 , HB158 , HB160 , HB169 , HB227 , HB251 , HB289 , HB330 , HB394 , HB410 , HB429 , HB769 , HB971 , HB1017 , HB1234 , HB1235 , HB9 , HB177 , HB181 , HB202 , HB223 , HB225 , HB387 , HB398 , HB457 , HB459 , HB540 , HB591 , HB616 , HB766 , HB775 , HB783 , HB895 , HB906 , HB950 , HB975 , HB1052 , HB1057 , HB1076 , HB1100 , HB1139 , HB1155 , HB1160 , HB1182 , HB1186 , HB1220 , HB1223 , HB1224 , HB1228 , HB1231 , HB1245 , HB1256 , HB17 , HB27 , HB36 , HB41 , HB47 , HB73 , HB126 , HB133 , HB140 , HB159 , HB166 , HB205 , HB211 , HB226 , HB259 , HB271 , HB308 , HB310 , HB324 , HB337 , HB351 , HB399 , HB403 , HB571 , HB712 , HB723 , HB726 , HB740 , HB750 , HB759 , HB812 , HB844 , HB966 , HB1006 , HB1009 , HB1018 , HB1036 , HB1038 , HB1107 , SB29 , SB42 , SB78 , SB208 , SB217 , SB274 , SB300 , SB341 , SB379 , SB382 , SB387 , SB401 , SB441 , SB449 , SB487 , HB74 , HB134 , HB258 , HB359 , HB468 , HB956 , HB1117 , SB43 , SB149
Keywords:
SR146, Senate Resolution 146, Louis Thomas Nelson, Thomas Nelson, condolences, memorial resolution, tribute, obituary, public service, St. Martinville, Cade, St. Martin Parish, police juror, mayor, community center, water system, school bus driver, school board, Louisiana Senate, sympathy
Summary:
The Senate opened with roll call, a prayer by campus pastor Anthony Brown, and the Pledge of Allegiance. After the journal was read, the chamber took up a series of resolutions and bills, beginning with measures directing studies on mineral servitudes, student non-enrollment determinations, autism services, school nurse orientation, declining school enrollment, behavioral health and homelessness, floodplain map updates, opioid treatment in correctional facilities, oversized vehicle permits, rural economic development, hunting education in schools, and fraud prevention for seniors. Several local and commemorative resolutions were also adopted, including Tangipahoa Parish Fair Day, recognition of Lane Frenchy Boudreau’s military service, and a memorial resolution honoring Bob Bowman. Personal privilege remarks also recognized festival royalty, the Westlake High School baseball team, Dr. E. Joseph Savoy, and 101-year-old Thelma Smith Williams.
The Senate concurred in or adopted numerous House concurrent resolutions, often after brief explanations and, in some cases, amendments. These included measures on criminal history background checks for ambulance personnel, autism support services, school nurse orientation, acute care access for individuals with developmental disabilities, child abuse reporting training, physical therapy student loan eligibility, migratory waterfowl research, and a task force on senior fraud prevention. The chamber also adopted resolutions related to seafood competitiveness, bridge backup motors, I-12 improvements, and a Louisiana Energy Protection Act-style climate litigation measure, along with a resolution supporting Preeclampsia Day and a new Woman’s Hospital initiative.
The Senate then moved through a long calendar of House bills on third reading and final passage. Bills passed included measures on Safe Haven Law postings in schools, official journal pricing, the Governor’s Task Force on Impaired Driving, the Bayou Growth Opportunity Workforce Program, sexual assault survivor rights, intercollegiate athletics revenue-sharing records, renewable energy recycling, school emergency operations plans, the Louisiana FIRST data system, oilfield site restoration fees, inmate programming, automatic reinstatement of suspended driver’s licenses, special vehicle permits, climate-change damages, the Louisiana Center for State Schools, the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment Task Force, fire limits, police chief appointment in Folsom, digitized credentials, Sewage and Water Board procurement, behavioral health crisis insurance coverage, the Louisiana Talent Accelerator Office, indigent defender fee thresholds, prestige license plates, public license tag agent fees, highway naming, public defender terminology cleanup, an improvement district in Orleans Parish, a Democratic Party license plate, DWI-related substance definitions, commercial driver’s license rules, and a Shreveport demolition/local property bill. Several measures drew debate, especially HB 608 on athletics revenue-sharing transparency, which passed 32-13 after concerns about public records and taxpayer transparency. The final bill mentioned, HB 1059 on TOPS math requirements, was introduced at the end of the transcript but its disposition was not shown.
NY
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
New York State Senate Session - 05/11/2026
New York Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- the State Board of Elections an application for registration for a person who indicates on the integrated
- the State Board of Elections an application for registration for a person who indicates on the integrated
Summary:
The Senate opened with routine business, including approval of the prior journal and several messages from the Assembly to discharge and substitute identical Senate bills. The chamber then took up a budget extender, Senate Print 10262/Assembly Bill 11295, which would appropriate $2.9 billion to keep state government operating through May 14 while budget negotiations continued. Senator O’Mara questioned the delay in reaching a full budget and criticized the lack of clarity on major policy issues, conference committees, school aid timing, and a proposed $1 billion utility ratepayer relief plan, arguing the state’s spending and affordability problems were worsening. Senator Serrano responded that negotiations were in the final stretch and that the extender was necessary to maintain government operations. The extender passed 59-1 after being restored to the non-controversial calendar.
The Senate also considered a major election-law bill, Senate Print 88A, providing for automatic voter registration and pre-registration through DMV, Medicaid, and NYCHA-related transactions. Senator Walczyk’s proposed amendment to require voter ID was ruled nongermane, and his appeal was rejected. The bill prompted extended debate over whether the process would protect against non-citizen registration or instead remove barriers for eligible voters. Supporters, including Senator Gianaris, said it would streamline registration and help eligible but unregistered New Yorkers participate; Senator Zellner said it would strengthen the process. Opponents, including Senators Walczyk, Borrello, Helming, Rhoads, and Martins, warned it would shift responsibility away from bipartisan boards of elections, create administrative errors, and risk improper registration. The bill ultimately passed after being restored to the non-controversial calendar, with senators explaining votes along party lines.
The chamber also adopted or advanced several resolutions and recognized guests. Senator Gallivan’s Police Week resolution drew remarks honoring fallen officers and law enforcement families, with Senators Chan, Rolison, Weik, Ryan, and Myrie speaking in support. Senator Sepúlveda’s resolution commemorating Dominicans in Albany was also discussed, with praise for the Dominican community’s contributions to New York and supportive remarks from Senator Chan. In addition, the Senate heard introductions for guests from Allen A.M.E. Church and the creators of the documentary “Teenage Wasteland.”
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Senate Legislative Session Apr 30th, 2026 at 09:00 am
Oklahoma Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- You found a person that is of integrity. We're all going to talk about how smart he is.
- while we ended up on the opposite ends of teams or in different teams, I always appreciated your integrity
Bills:
HB1168
Keywords:
abortion, abortion-inducing drugs, medication abortion, mifepristone, misoprostol, methotrexate, pro-life, pro-choice, reproductive health, unborn child, trafficking, felony, contraception, pharmacist, pharmacy, Title 63, Oklahoma statutes, abortion pill, drug distribution, criminal penalty
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
House of Representatives Second Regular Session of the 60th Legislature Day 49 - Afternoon Session Apr 29th, 2026 at 01:30 pm
Oklahoma House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- But Marcus always appreciated your honesty, your integrity, and your hard work, Marc Lawson.
- They would be integrated into the regular AP testing schedule.
Bills:
HR1055 , SB2170 , SB1833 , SB1198 , HR1056 , SB1730 , SB563 , SB1379 , SB1645 , SB2155 , SB1280 , SB1455 , SB1456 , SB1461 , SB1457 , SB1463 , SB1465 , SB1466 , SB1344 , SB1309 , HR1054 , SB2159 , SB1948 , HB1371 , SB1365 , SB1976 , SB1975 , SB2026 , SB1565 , SB1621 , SB237 , SB933 , SB1427 , SB1642 , SB171 , SB1873 , SB2067 , SB1623 , SB1771 , SB1805 , SB1826 , SB2072 , SB444 , SB2184 , SB1966 , SB1812 , SB2117 , SB2135 , SB330 , SB1239 , SB1428 , SB1531 , SB1484 , SB1405 , SB3
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee Apr 7th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Do we want to be integrated in with our wildlife, our wild lands, and our wildlife?
- demonstration and adoption, not because they lack value, but because there's no formal system to evaluate, integrate
Summary:
The committee first heard SB 872, which would direct $300 million annually for 20 years to repair subsidence damage in the State Water Project and to fund Delta levee repairs. The author and supporters said the bill is needed to protect water deliveries for 27 million Californians, prevent major infrastructure and flood risks, and address long-term threats to California’s water supply. Support came from a broad coalition of water agencies, local governments, environmental groups, and business interests; there was no opposition testimony. Members discussed the scale of the funding, the beneficiary-pays issue, and whether the bill should more clearly address risk and identify likely project areas. The committee adopted amendments, and SB 872 passed 5-0 to Appropriations and was placed on call.
The committee then took up SB 1305, a study bill on the feasibility of reintroducing the California grizzly bear. The author, tribal sponsors, and conservation supporters framed the bill as a science-based roadmap that would examine habitat, impacts, and implementation, while recognizing the grizzly’s cultural significance to tribes and its ecological role. Opponents, including sheriffs, cattle groups, county representatives, and a former Fish and Wildlife law enforcement official, argued that California lacks the staffing, funding, and public-safety capacity to manage another apex predator and that the state is already struggling with wolves and mountain lions. Members raised questions about the scope of the feasibility study, local control, and whether the bill should address conflict risk earlier in the process. The author agreed to work on additional amendments, and the bill passed 4-1 to Appropriations and remained on call.
SB 1079, creating a Cal Fire Fire Innovation Unit to speed the testing and deployment of wildfire technologies, was heard next. The author and supporters said California has strong wildfire innovation but lacks a formal pipeline to move promising tools from pilot projects into statewide use. Supporters included Megafire Action, Fireworks, the Orange County Fire Authority, and the California Association of Realtors, which sought amendments related to nonprofit administration of grants. There was no opposition testimony. The bill passed 5-0 to Emergency Management and was placed on call. The committee also heard SB 997, which would give the North Fork Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency lien authority to collect fines and fees tied to its groundwater sustainability plan. Supporters said the change would allow more efficient enforcement and avoid lengthy civil litigation; no opposition appeared. Members asked whether the authority should be extended more broadly to other statutory GSAs, and the author said discussions were ongoing. SB 997 passed 2-0 to Judiciary and was placed on call. The committee later caught up on votes for the earlier bills and then moved to SB 894, a wildfire resilience loan program modeled on Go Green to help homeowners finance home-hardening measures; it passed 5-0 to Emergency Management and was placed on call. Finally, SB 1229 was introduced by Senator Allen to strengthen coastal protections for rebuilding after disasters, beginning with the Palisades fire context, but the transcript cuts off before that bill’s full hearing concluded.
LA
Louisiana 2026 Regular Session
House of Representatives Mar 24th, 2026
Louisiana House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- He said that he was a person, an attorney of high integrity.
- He said that he was a person, an attorney of high integrity, and someone that I should talk to, and someone
Bills:
HR58 , HR59 , HR60 , HR61 , HR62 , HR63 , HR64 , HCR32 , HB43 , HB447 , HB573 , HB1000 , HB1001 , HB1002 , HB1003 , HB1004 , HB1005 , HR46 , HR48 , HR50 , HR51 , HR52 , HR53 , HR54 , HR55 , HR56 , HR57 , HCR31 , HB20 , HB21 , HB166 , HB494 , HB710 , HB795 , HB985 , HB986 , HB987 , HB988 , HB989 , HB990 , HB991 , HB992 , HB993 , HB994 , HB995 , HB996 , HB997 , HB998 , SB128 , SB149 , SB174 , SB191 , SB205 , SB213 , SB218 , SB220 , SB229 , SB238 , SB243 , SB375 , SB379 , HB8 , HB9 , HB10 , HB15 , HB16 , HB17 , HB18 , HB19 , HB22 , HB33 , HB34 , HB35 , HB44 , HB46 , HB47 , HB48 , HB61 , HB101 , HB126 , HB135 , HB142 , HB164 , HB185 , HB215 , HB226 , HB232 , HB233 , HB242 , HB284 , HB292 , HB297 , HB301 , HB334 , HB436 , HB468 , HB548 , HB571 , HB582 , HB593 , HB594 , HB609 , HB613 , HB712 , HB722 , HB732 , HB746 , HB781 , HB827 , HB845 , HB848 , HB921 , HB923 , HB951 , HB953 , HB999 , HB129 , HB130 , HB287 , HB489 , HB545 , HB553 , HB555 , HB570 , HB854 , HB952 , HB28 , HB36 , HB50 , HB52 , HB56 , HB62 , HB68 , HB92 , HB110 , HB117 , HB119 , HB124 , HB140 , HB147 , HB171 , HB182 , HB193 , HB196 , HB203 , HB228 , HB234 , HB260 , HB268 , HB271 , HB285 , HB289 , HB351 , HB400 , HB413 , HB469 , HB534 , HB551 , HB552 , HB574 , HB576 , HB634 , HB649 , HB677 , HB735 , HB739 , HB779 , HB784 , HB796 , HB842 , HB850 , HB919 , HB149 , HB733 , HB875 , HB868 , HB901
Keywords:
waterfowl conservation, wetlands preservation, Ducks Unlimited, environmental stewardship, Louisiana, tennis, athlete recognition, family legacy, sports achievements, coaching, student parents, higher education, academic support, family stability, workforce equity, Homeland Security, federal funding, public safety, emergency services, TSA
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Natural Resources Committee Mar 23rd, 2026
Natural Resources
Transcript Highlights:
- wisest we can learn from by providing meaningful, committed tribal co-governance and stewardship and integrating
- By providing meaningful, committed tribal co-governance and stewardship and integrating Indigenous tribal
Committee:
House Natural Resources
ND
North Dakota 2026 1st Special Session
Budget Section Regulatory Division Mar 18th, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- when, Nathan, when you get into those, and I'm sure what a lot of those hearings are is the well integrity
- A lot of those hearings are about the well integrity of keeping that, you know, because you're dealing
Summary:
The committee met as the Regulatory Division of the budget section and received updates on several Industrial Commission-related agencies and programs. Legislative Council first reviewed base budget materials, then the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency reported on its current appropriation and staffing, noting that its new FTEs were being filled gradually and that it remained largely funded through special and federal funds. Agency leaders described homeownership lending, loan servicing, and housing incentive fund activity, including below-market mortgage rates, down payment assistance, and a growing servicing portfolio that has increased workload but not yet required additional FTEs.
Housing Finance also detailed use of the Housing Incentive Fund and homeless grant dollars. Officials said the multifamily HIF round drew more than $73 million in requests and awarded $25 million, while the single-family program supported rural development and community land trusts. Homeless grant funding was split between emergency shelter, prevention, and rapid rehousing, with performance-based scoring used to renew or reallocate awards. Members discussed housing affordability, aging households, rental assistance, and the need to coordinate housing and site-preparation messaging with Commerce. The agency asked that HIF, single-family, and homeless funding be maintained or increased in the next session.
The Department of Mineral Resources then presented its budget and operations update. Staff said the agency was on track financially, had filled most of its new reclamation FTEs, and was not expecting major litigation costs beyond normal late-biennium invoices. The director reviewed agency initiatives including Project North Star IT modernization, organizational restructuring, succession planning, rulemaking, and implementation of the development incentive well tax program and critical minerals rules. He also discussed oil and gas activity, explaining that longer laterals, especially three- and four-mile wells and the first five-mile spacing case, are helping keep production relatively flat even as rig counts ease. Members asked about gas capture, hedging, break-even prices, and the effects of Iran and Venezuela on oil markets.
The committee also heard about enhanced oil recovery grants and the Pipeline Authority. The EOR program’s $25 million appropriation was fully allocated to six projects, with total awards reaching about $45.1 million when other fund balances were included, subject to a possible 5% reduction if federal DOE money does not materialize. Officials said the projects are public, reimbursement-based, and will produce results over the next several years. Finally, the Pipeline Authority outlined natural gas transmission projects, including the imminent Bakken Express line and the proposed Bakken East project, which WBI was selected to advance after an Industrial Commission RFI process. The project is moving through open season, survey permission, and regulatory work, with in-service dates projected for 2029 and 2030.
ND
North Dakota 2026 1st Special Session
Budget Section Regulatory Division Mar 18th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- when, Nathan, when you get into those, and I'm sure what a lot of those hearings are is the well integrity
- A lot of those hearings are about the well integrity of keeping that, you know, because you're dealing
Summary:
The committee met as the Budget Section’s Regulatory Division and first reviewed base budget materials for the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency and the Department of Mineral Resources. Legislative Council explained the blue-sheet budget summaries and historical funding trends. The Housing Finance Agency then reported on its ongoing homeownership, housing incentive, and homelessness programs, noting that its new FTEs are being filled, loan servicing remains above benchmark, and the agency is operating largely on special and federal funds rather than general fund dollars.
Housing Finance officials said the Housing Incentive Fund continues to be heavily oversubscribed, with requests far exceeding available dollars, and described how funds are being used for multifamily gap financing, rural single-family development, community land trusts, and homeless prevention/rapid rehousing. Members asked about performance measures, the number of people served, and the relationship between housing costs, wages, and homelessness. The agency said it uses scoring criteria tied to performance and outcomes, and requested that the Legislature maintain or increase funding for HIF, single-family housing, and homeless grants. Committee members also discussed the need to coordinate housing finance efforts with Commerce and broader site-preparation and workforce issues.
The Department of Mineral Resources reported that it is on track with its budget, has filled most of its newly authorized reclamation positions, and is moving ahead on several initiatives, including IT modernization through Project North Star, organizational succession planning, and rulemaking for critical minerals and oil and gas programs. The director gave an extensive update on oil and gas activity, explaining that longer laterals and operational efficiencies are keeping production relatively flat even as rig counts decline, and that gas capture remains around 95 percent. Members asked about oil prices, hedging, spacing units, and the effects of geopolitical events on markets and state revenues.
The committee also received an update on the enhanced oil recovery grant program and the Pipeline Authority. The EOR program’s $25 million appropriation was fully allocated to six projects, with additional oil and gas research funds also committed, and officials said the projects will require public status reports and final reports. The Pipeline Authority described major natural gas transmission projects, including the upcoming Bakken Express line and the proposed Bakken East project, which recently completed a binding open season after the Industrial Commission selected WBI Energy’s proposal to move forward.
ND
North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Budget Section Regulatory Division Mar 18th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- when, Nathan, when you get into those, and I'm sure what a lot of those hearings are is the well integrity
- A lot of those hearings are the well integrity of keeping that, you know, because you're dealing with
Summary:
The committee met as the Regulatory Division budget section and first reviewed the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency’s budget and program update. Legislative Council outlined the agency’s base budget and historical funding, and Housing Finance staff reported on homeownership lending, housing incentive fund (HIF) awards, and homeless grant spending. Agency officials said the five new FTEs approved last session are mostly filled, with one homeless program manager still open. They described strong demand for HIF, noting that September 2025 multifamily requests exceeded $73 million while only $25 million was available, and that single-family and homeless programs are also heavily subscribed. Members discussed the agency’s local loan servicing workload, interest-rate benefits, down payment assistance, and the need to coordinate housing discussions with Commerce and site-preparation efforts. The agency asked that HIF, single-family, and homeless funding be maintained or increased, and committee members emphasized accountability and statewide access for homeless prevention and rapid rehousing funds.
The Department of Mineral Resources then presented its budget and agency initiatives. Staff reported that the department is on track financially, that most of the five new reclamation-related FTEs are hired, and that litigation costs tied to oil and gas matters are expected to continue appearing late in the biennium. The director reviewed ongoing modernization and organizational efforts, including the North Star IT project, succession planning, training, and rulemaking for oil and gas and critical minerals. Members asked about longer laterals, spacing, and production trends; the department said operators are increasingly drilling three-, four-, and even an initial five-mile lateral, which is helping keep North Dakota oil production relatively flat even as rig counts ease. The director also discussed oil price volatility tied to Middle East conflict, hedging practices among producers, gas capture remaining around 95%, and the likelihood that current production levels will stay near flat unless prices or geopolitical conditions change significantly.
An update on the enhanced oil recovery grant program followed. The Industrial Commission’s grant administrator said the full $25 million appropriation was allocated in the fall to six projects, and because the oil and gas research fund also had carryover and biennial tax revenue, total awards reached about $45.1 million. The projects are expected to run two to four years, with meaningful results not likely until mid-2026 or later. Members questioned whether the public would have access to the research findings and how accountability would be maintained; staff said the grants are reimbursement-based, require regular status reports, and will culminate in public final reports. The committee also heard from the North Dakota Pipeline Authority, which updated members on natural gas transmission projects, especially WBI Energy’s proposed Bakken East pipeline. The authority said the project has advanced through a nonbinding and then binding open season, with WBI now securing survey permissions and moving through regulatory and landowner processes, while other related gas transmission projects near Minot and Epping are also in development.